Heaptalk, Jakarta — A total of 750 students will participate as colossal dancers for the 24th anniversary of West Kutai on November 5, 2023. The students have started practicing the choreography at Itho Sendawar Square, Regent’s Office Complex, Barong Tongkok District, Wes Kutai Regency.
Colossal dance choreographer Hertalina said that the students had gone through selection at several senior high schools and vocational high schools since early September. She said, “The dancer selection process was carried out through auditions at several senior high schools and vocational high schools in all districts in early September. As a result, around 750 students were selected to participate in the colossal dance which will be the main highlight of the West Kutai anniversary celebration event.”
In more detail, this year’s colossal dance performance will feature additional ethnic dances from Java, Batak, Toraja, and East Nusa Tenggara to complement the dances from the 6 ethnicities that already exist in West Kutai. This performance was also prepared to welcome the arrival of President Joko Widodo.
“We have two agendas, firstly welcoming President Joko Widodo and secondly a colossal dance performance on November 5,” said Hertalina.
To facilitate practice and performances, preparations for this colossal dance involved a coaching team consisting of 6 coaches and 15 assistant coaches. Hertalina emphasized that this moment is an opportunity for students in West Kutai to learn and preserve the arts and culture in the region.
“Let’s develop West Kutai through arts and culture. For students in West Kutai, please continue to be creative, including dancing. That way, our cultural identity will not be lost to time and modernity. Let’s preserve and respect our cultural arts,” Hertalina concluded.
(Translated by Sinta)
